Essential Brugge Bucket List for an Unforgettable Trip

Bruges, the fairy-tale city of cobblestone streets, ancient canals, and gothic architecture, is waiting to steal your heart. Ready to uncover the magic? Let’s go on an adventure to explore the top things you must see and do in this enchanting city.

Must-Do Activities in Brugge for First-Time Visitors

Visit the Main Square

Start your Bruges adventure at the very heart of the city—the Main Square, also known as the Grote Markt. This vibrant hub is brimming with history.

• Belfort Watchtower: Standing tall since 1240, this iconic tower offers stunning panoramic views.
• Halle Building: Once the center of city trade, dating back to the 13th century.
• Monument to Local Heroes: Pay homage to the independence fighters Pieter de Koninck and Jan Breydel.

Pro Tip: If you’re there during the holiday season, don’t miss the ice rink and Christmas fair. Saturdays are market days, so snag some local goodies!

Climb the Belfort Tower

For a bird’s-eye view of Bruges, climbing the Belfort Tower is a must. This watchtower, initially constructed in 1240, has seen its fair share of drama.

• Historical Significance: Once housed the city hall, treasury, and archive. Tragically, a fire in 1280 destroyed the wooden spire and valuable archives.
• Height and Steps: The tower stands at 83 meters tall, and you’ll need to conquer 366 steps to reach the top.
• Observation Deck: Offers breathtaking views of the cityscape—totally worth the climb!

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful ascent.

Brugge Bucket List: Feed the Swans

Ever wondered how swans became the unofficial mascots of Bruges? It’s all thanks to a dramatic historical twist.

• Maximilian’s Revenge: After a rebellion, Archduke Maximilian ordered the locals to breed swans in memory of beheaded mayor Pieter Lanhals (meaning “long-necked”).
• Swan Identification: Male swans have rings on their right paw, while females wear them on the left.

Pro Tip: Bring some bird-friendly snacks and watch these majestic creatures glide gracefully across the water.

See the Gothic Town Hall

Take a step back in time at Bruges’ Gothic Town Hall, one of the oldest buildings in Belgium.

• Construction Timeline: Built between 1376 and 1421.
• Architectural Marvel: An impressive testament to Bruges’ prosperity during the medieval era.

Pro Tip: Tour the interior for a glimpse of lavish Gothic chambers and intricate artwork.

See Brugge Through the Eyes of Film Characters

Ever watched “In Bruges”? This film captures the city’s essence in a unique way.

• Movie Magic: Director Martin McDonagh was inspired after visiting Brugge, capturing both its charm and its darker side.
• Festive Season: To create a festive feel, some streets were decorated with Christmas lights until March.

Pro Tip: Watch the movie before your visit to see the city through the eyes of the film’s characters.

Learn the History of Beguinages

Discover the unique history of beguinages, religious communities for single women in Flanders and the Netherlands.

• Historical Roots: Founded in 1238 by Joanna of Constantinople.
• Unique Lifestyle: Unlike nuns, beguines did not take a vow of celibacy and could leave the community.

Pro Tip: Visit the beguinage to learn more about this unique way of life and its impact on the region.

Take a Boat Ride Through the Canals

Experience Brugge from a different perspective with a boat ride through its scenic canals.

• Secret Gardens: Spot hidden gardens and explore ancient city bridges.
• Venice of the North: With over 80 bridges, Brugge earns its nickname.

Pro Tip: Opt for a guided tour to hear interesting stories and facts about the city as you float along.

Snap a Postcard-Perfect Photo at Rosenhudkai

Rosenhudkai is one of the most photographed spots in Brugge, and for good reason.

• Iconic View: This picturesque spot feels like stepping into a living postcard.
• Photography Paradise: Perfect for capturing the beauty of Brugge from every angle.

Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the most magical lighting.

Immerse Yourself in the History of Love at the Lake of Love

The Lake of Love isn’t just beautiful; it’s steeped in romantic legend.

• The Legend of Minna and Stromberg: A tale of love and loss that led to the creation of the lake.
• The Bridge: Legend has it that lovers who swear vows here will overcome all trials.

Pro Tip: Bring a loved one and make a vow on the bridge for an unforgettable experience.

Marvel at the Madonna of Bruges

Head over to the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Madonna of Bruges.

• Artwork: This statue of the Virgin Mary and Child is made of Carrara marble and stands at 128 centimeters high.
• Historical Significance: It’s the only Michelangelo statue taken out of Italy during his lifetime.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get a closer look at this incredible artwork.

The Memling Museum

Art lovers, rejoice! The Memling Museum is a treasure trove of works by the famed artist Hans Memling.

• Expanded Collection: Recently expanded to include objects and artwork illustrating Memling’s life.
• Heart of the Museum: The old chapel where Memling’s visionary works are hung.

Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush and get a closer look at the exhibits.

Visit the Remarkable Jerusalem Church

Located in the quiet St. Anna quarter, the Jerusalem Church is a striking example of Romanesque architecture.

• Historical Significance: Built around 1470 by a Genoese merchant, modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.
• Lace Center: Across the churchyard, you can learn the art of lace making at the Lace Center.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit to the church with a stop at the Lace Center to make the most of your time in St. Anna quarter.

Indulge in Belgian Chocolate

No trip to Belgium is complete without indulging in their world-famous chocolate. And in Bruges, you’ll find some of the best chocolatiers in the country.

• Chocolatier Highlights: The Chocolate Line, Dumon Chocolaterie, and The Old Chocolate House are all must-visit spots.
• Unique Offerings: Try traditional pralines, speculoos-filled chocolates, or even beer-infused truffles!

Pro Tip: Take a guided chocolate walking tour to learn about the history and production process of this beloved treat.

Must-See and Do in Brugge

• Main Square: Start at Grote Markt, home to the Belfort watchtower and ancient Halle building. Seasonal market on Saturdays.
• Belfort Tower: Climb 366 steps for panoramic views of Bruges. Built in 1240, restored at the end of the 13th century.
• Feed the Swans: Learn the swan story linked to Archduke Maximilian. Identify males and females by their ring placement.
• Town Hall: Gothic masterpiece built between 1376-1421. One of Belgium’s oldest buildings.
• Madonna of Bruges: See Michelangelo’s marble statue of the Virgin Mary and Child at the Church of Our Lady.
• Postcard Photo: Snap a pic at Rosenhudkai, the most photographed spot in Bruges.
• Lake of Love: Visit the romantic lake with legends of love. Vow-lasting bridge promises enduring love.
• Beguinage History: Explore the religious settlement founded in 1238, now home to Benedictine nuns and elderly people.
• Boat Ride: Discover secret gardens and ancient bridges on a canal tour. Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North.”
• Film Locations: See Bruges through the lens of the “In Bruges” film, directed by Martin McDonagh, with festive decorations lasting till March.

Conclusion

Brugge is a city that captures the heart and imagination of all who visit. Whether you’re exploring its medieval squares, climbing ancient towers, feeding swans, or immersing yourself in its rich history and legends, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

Ready to create unforgettable memories in Brugge? Start planning your trip today and make sure to check off these must-do experiences!